17th Century Hand-Colored Engraving of Scenes of Roman Life by Pietro Bartoli

A large, nicely-framed Italian hand-colored engraving in tones of terracotta and black (17th century, with more recent matte and frame) by Pietro Bartoli. The engraving depicts the mosaic ceiling in the church of Santa Costanza outside of Rome, which was studied by the ecclesiatical archaeologist Giovanni Ciampini. The mosaic ceiling no longer exists, but is known through various depictions of the artwork, such as this engraving. The images include Christian imagery including the sacrifice of Cain and Abel and possibly Noah building the ark. The upper row of mosaics is believed to represent scenes from the New Testament, with caryatids dividing the ceiling into twelve segments. The engraving is captioned in Latin: "Opus Musiuum olim in tholo Templi, quod vulgo creditur Bacchi, nunc Sancte Constantie extra Portam Piam cariatides, et Telamones in duodecium dividant Segmenta, ubi plura autumnales ferias, et piscationis Genium demostrant, iuxta interpretionem Ciampini qui mediatatem exhibet Veterum monum." In the 17th century, the church of Santa Costanza was known as the "Temple of Bacchus," and was the site of rowdy Bacchic festivals until Pope Clement XI banned the rites in 1720. Pietro Santo...

A pair of very finely-chased French brass candlesticks, circa 1870 in the neoclassical style (could be electrified as table lamps). Bases are decorated with rose vines.

Title: "Scenes of Traditional Life and Festivities: Hand-Colored Engraving from Bertuch's Bilderbuch für Kinder" Description: This lively hand-colored copperplate engraving captures four distinct vignettes of traditional European life and festive activities, highlighting the cultural practices and vibrant community spirit of the 19th century. Published in Friedrich Johann Bertuch’s renowned *Bilderbuch für Kinder* (Picture Book for Children) in Weimar, 1805, the engraving reflects the Enlightenment-era focus on illustrating the diversity of human life. The scenes include: - Figure 1: A wrestling match in a grassy meadow, surrounded by an attentive crowd, showcasing traditional sportsmanship. - Figure 2: A pastoral scene with a group enjoying the melodies of an alpine horn...

This attractive highly detailed 17th century original hand-colored map is entitled "Archiepiscopatus Maghdeburgensis et Anhaltinus Ducatus cum terris adjacentibus". It was published ...